New Testament
Mark 5:37
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He didn't let anyone come with him except Peter, James, and James's brother John.
Compare translations
And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and James, and John the brother of James.
What Mark 5:37 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus chooses to take only three of his disciples—Peter, James, and John—when he goes to perform a significant miracle. This selective approach highlights the special relationship and trust he has with these three disciples. It suggests that not everyone is ready to witness the profound events that Jesus is about to undertake. By limiting the number of witnesses, Jesus may also be emphasizing the importance of faith and the need for a close circle of support during critical moments. This moment foreshadows the deeper teachings and experiences that these disciples will have, setting them apart for future leadership roles within the early church. The choice of these three men indicates their unique position among the disciples, as they often accompany Jesus during pivotal moments in his ministry, such as the Transfiguration and in the Garden of Gethsemane. This verse invites readers to consider the significance of close relationships and the importance of having trusted companions in times of challenge and revelation.
How to apply Mark 5:37 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our close relationships and the people we allow into our lives during significant moments. Surrounding ourselves with trusted individuals can provide support and strengthen our faith, especially when facing challenges or making important decisions.
Curated for this public verse page. Mark Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Jairus' Daughter and a Woman Healed (Mark 5:21–43)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Mark 5:37
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Mark 5:37
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Mark
- Author
- John Mark
- Written
- Around AD 55-65
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Roman and Gentile Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Mark 5:37 mean?
Mark 5:37 means that Jesus chose to take only Peter, James, and John with him to witness a significant miracle, highlighting their special relationship and the trust he placed in them.
Why did Jesus only take Peter, James, and John in Mark 5:37?
Jesus only took Peter, James, and John because they were part of his inner circle of disciples, indicating their unique role and readiness to witness profound events.
What is the significance of Mark 5:37?
The significance of Mark 5:37 lies in its demonstration of selective witness, emphasizing the importance of close relationships and faith during critical moments in Jesus' ministry.
What does the phrase 'suffered no man to follow him' mean in Mark 5:37?
The phrase 'suffered no man to follow him' means that Jesus intentionally restricted the number of people accompanying him, suggesting that not everyone was prepared to witness the miracle he was about to perform.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.